A blinded, randomized, controlled study on the effect of buffered 0.9% and 3% sodium chloride intranasal sprays on ciliary beat frequency

Background: There are conflicting reports regarding the effect of intranasal saline sprays on the various components of the mucociliary clearance system. This study evaluates the effect of normal saline and hypertonic saline on the ciliary beat frequency (CBF). Methods: Eight healthy volunteers were randomized to receive 0.9% saline spray to one nostril and 3.0% saline spray to the other. Ciliated cells were collected, and the CBF was calculated using computerized microphotometry. Results. Although neither solution significantly altered the CBF from baseline measurements, there was a significant difference between the CBFs of the two solutions at 5 minutes postadministration (9.1 Hz with 0.9% saline, 10.1 Hz with 3.0% saline, P < .05). This was a transient effect and was not seen when cells were examined at 60 minutes postadministration. Conclusion: The administration of hypertonic saline results in a significantly faster CBF 5 minutes after administration. This effect is not seen 60 minutes after administration. Key Words. Ciliary beat frequency, hypertonic saline, nasal irrigation.